A city in perpetual forward motion, Abu Dhabi greets visitors with gleaming skyscrapers and opulent Islamic architecture. There is much to see here, from the recently opened Louvre Abu Dhabi to the gigantic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, with its white marble splendor. Beach life and turquoise waters can be found on Saadiyat Island, Al Bateen and Corniche Beach.

Australia and New Zealand each have their own identities, shaped by indigenous heritage, colonial history, and vibrant contemporary cultures. Visitors can travel between the two in just a few hours, yet find themselves in entirely different worlds.

For many, France's countryside is just as interesting and varied as the great city of Paris. There are many small towns and villages to explore for wine-tasting, skiing, beaches, architecture and historical sites. But if it is the "City of Lights" you love, be sure to take in the Louvre, the Champs Elysees, Notre Dame, sidewalk cafes, world class shopping — and of course, the Eiffel Tower.

This Sicily harbor city is divided from Italy proper by the Strait of Messina. Visitors marvel at the Gothic, bell-towered Norman Messina Cathedral.

Located on the banks of the Danube, Spitz an der Donau is a charming market town in Austria's Wachau valley. Occupied since Celtic times, Spitz offers spectacular views of the Danube valley.